💰 R228,321 per annum | 📍 Pretoria, Gauteng | 🏢 Government Position
Reference: 3/3/1/27/2025 | Posted: 01 August 2025 | Level: 05
Launch Your Government Career – No Experience Required!
Join the Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Quality Assurance team as an Administrative Clerk. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity to build a stable career in the public service while contributing to South Africa’s food safety standards.
Perfect for: Recent matriculants, career changers, or anyone looking to start a rewarding government career with growth potential.
Position Overview
Department: Chief Directorate: Food Safety and Quality Assurance
Location: Head Office, Pretoria (20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia)
Employment Type: Permanent
Salary: R228,321 per annum (Government Level 05)
Why This Role?
✅ No experience required – Full training provided
✅ Job security – Permanent government position
✅ Career growth – Clear advancement opportunities within the public service
✅ Competitive benefits – Government pension, medical aid, and leave benefits
✅ Meaningful work – Support food safety initiatives that protect South Africans
✅ Skills development – Gain valuable administrative and public service experience
What You’ll Do
General Administrative Support
- Record, organize, store, and retrieve correspondence and data efficiently
- Maintain comprehensive filing systems for the component
- Update registers and manage statistics accurately
- Handle routine enquiries from internal and external stakeholders
- Type letters and correspondence as needed
- Manage incoming and outgoing document registers
- Make photocopies and handle facsimile communications
- Distribute documents and packages to various stakeholders
Supply Chain & Procurement Support
- Provide clerical support for procurement processes
- Liaise with suppliers and internal departments regarding goods and services
- Obtain quotations and complete procurement forms for standard office items
- Maintain stock control systems for office stationery
- Keep and update the asset register for the component
Personnel Administration
- Maintain accurate leave registers for the component
- Keep and manage personnel records
- Monitor and update attendance registers
- Coordinate travel arrangements and accommodation bookings for staff
Financial Administration
- Capture and update expenditure data accurately
- Verify subsistence and travel claims for correctness
- Submit approved claims to management
- Manage telephone accounts and petty cash for the component
Requirements
Essential Qualifications
- Grade 12 Certificate (Matric) – This is the only formal requirement
- No prior work experience needed – We provide comprehensive training
Knowledge Areas (Training Provided)
- Clerical duties and administrative practices
- Data capturing and computer operation
- Statistical collection and reporting
- Legislative framework governing the Public Service
- Working procedures and protocols in government environment
Skills We’re Looking For
Communication: Strong verbal and written communication in English (additional languages advantageous)
Computer Skills: Basic computer literacy – ability to learn Microsoft Office suite
Organization: Planning and organizational capabilities
Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work professionally with diverse stakeholders
Teamwork: Collaborative approach and flexibility
Attention to Detail: Accuracy in record-keeping and data management
What Success Looks Like
In your first 3 months, you’ll:
- Master the filing and document management systems
- Build relationships with key internal stakeholders
- Become proficient in procurement processes and procedures
- Understand the department’s role in food safety and quality assurance
In your first year, you’ll:
- Independently manage administrative functions for your component
- Serve as a reliable resource for routine enquiries
- Contribute to improved efficiency in administrative processes
- Identify opportunities for process improvements
Ideal Candidate Profile
You’re perfect for this role if you:
- Are organized, detail-oriented, and take pride in accuracy
- Enjoy working in a structured, process-driven environment
- Want to build a stable career in the public service
- Are eager to learn government procedures and regulations
- Communicate clearly and professionally
- Can manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively
- Are committed to serving the public interest
New to the workforce? This position is designed for entry-level candidates. We value enthusiasm, reliability, and willingness to learn above all else.
Employment Equity Commitment
The Department of Agriculture is committed to building a diverse and representative workforce. We actively encourage applications from:
- African, Indian, and White males
- Indian and White females
- Persons with disabilities
All appointments will be made in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan and relevant legislation.
How to Apply
Application Deadline: [Insert closing date – typically 30 days from posting]
Submit Your Application Via:
Option 1 – Hand Delivery (Recommended):
20 Steve Biko Street
Agriculture Place
Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 16:00
Option 2 – Email:
ACrecruit272025@nda.agric.za
Subject Line: “Administrative Clerk – Ref 3/3/1/27/2025”
Required Documents:
- ✅ Comprehensive CV (include contactable references)
- ✅ Certified copy of Grade 12 Certificate
- ✅ Certified copy of ID document
- ✅ Completed Z83 form (obtain from any government department or download from DPSA website)
- ✅ Proof of address (not older than 3 months)
Important: Applications without all required documents will not be considered.
Application Tips
Do:
- Submit well before the deadline
- Ensure all documents are clearly certified (within 3 months)
- Provide accurate contact details and contactable references
- Write a brief cover letter expressing your interest
- Double-check that you’ve included all required documents
Don’t:
- Submit late applications (they won’t be accepted)
- Use uncertified copies of documents
- Provide false or misleading information
- Forget to sign your Z83 form
Selection Process
- Application Screening: All applications reviewed for completeness and compliance
- Shortlisting: Candidates meeting requirements will be shortlisted
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates invited for competency-based interviews
- Assessments: Practical assessments may be conducted
- Reference Checks: Verification of information and references
- Appointment: Successful candidate offered position subject to security clearance
Timeline: Expect to hear from us within 3 months of the closing date. If you don’t receive communication within this period, consider your application unsuccessful.
Enquiries
For questions about the role or application process:
Dr M Mutegwe
Tel: (012) 319 6321
Call Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 16:00
Please have your reference number (3/3/1/27/2025) ready when calling.
About the Department
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development works to ensure food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development for all South Africans. The Food Safety and Quality Assurance directorate plays a critical role in protecting public health through effective food safety standards and oversight.
As an Administrative Clerk, you’ll support this vital mission while building foundational skills for a rewarding public service career.
Terms & Conditions
- Probation Period: 12 months (standard for government entry-level positions)
- Benefits: Government pension fund, medical aid, housing allowance (if applicable), annual leave
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
- Salary: R228,321 per annum (non-negotiable – government pay scale Level 05)
- Appointment: Subject to positive security clearance and verification of qualifications
Start Your Public Service Journey Today
This is more than just an administrative position – it’s the foundation for a meaningful career in government service. You’ll gain valuable skills, work in a professional environment, and contribute to important work that impacts all South Africans.
Ready to apply? Gather your documents and submit your application today!
Reference Number: 3/3/1/27/2025
Department: Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Posting Date: 01/08/2025
The Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer. Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
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